Insular Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Insular Life (InLife), recently conducted a Career Readiness Summit to prepare its scholars for the demands of the modern workplace.

The summit was attended by third- and fourth-year Gold Eagle scholars from Insular Foundation’s partner state colleges and universities: University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, Aurora State College of Technology, Benguet State University, Bohol Island State University, Central Mindanao University, and Davao Oriental State University. 

InLife’s Chief Human Resources Officer Rozana Pecson shared nuggets of wisdom to help the scholars excel in their professional career. 

“Find your passion and build your career on it. Leverage on your strengths. Lead change. Bounce back in times of adversities,” Pecson told the scholars.

She also advised the scholars to adhere to their values, prioritize their well-being, and establish meaningful connections.

In his keynote presentation, Anthony Pangilinan, Chairman of The Master’s Lighthouse Foundation, discussed that individuals should do the following to achieve success: have a vision, accept life challenges or tension, and take action. 

Pangilinan pointed out that tension inspires people to act on their vision: “Kung walang tensyon sa buhay, walang accomplishment of vision. Hindi ka babangon sa umaga. You stretch a rubber band vertically – the lower part of the rubber band is your reality, and the upper portion of the rubber band is your vision – mga pangarap mo sa buhay.” 

Insular Foundation Executive Director Ana Maria Soriano, for her part, reiterated InLife and Insular Foundation’s commitment to supporting young Filipinos in underserved sectors through the Gold Eagle College Scholarship Program. 

“We take immense pride in witnessing our scholars excel academically, graduate, and make significant contributions in their chosen fields. Your drive, ambition, and remarkable determination to overcome challenges and strive for a better future for yourself and your family inspire us to continue the Insular Foundation’s Gold Eagle College Scholarship Program. As long as there are young Filipinos like you, we will remain dedicated to this cause,” she told the scholars.  

The Insular Foundation also recognized the 2024 Gold Eagle Scholar Graduates from UP Diliman, and Graduates of InLife’s Scholarship Program for Employees’ Dependents during the summit. 

In her message on behalf of the graduates, Gold Eagle Scholar Yannis Fernandez from UP Diliman expressed appreciation to Insular Foundation for supporting their academic journey. “We are privileged to have access to education, and hopefully, this privilege will not be caged in us alone. I am hoping that as the sunflowers bloomed despite the storm, we will also power through amidst chaos and seeming hopelessness,” she said.  

Manila, Philippines – TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brands, today announced its attendance at Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 which takes place in January. TCL has participated in CES for 31 years, during which the brand has consistently showcased its latest innovative display technologies and a full range of smart home products to global visitors.

As a highlight of this year’s showcase, TCL will reveal its innovative QD-Mini LED technologies and products that deliver an unparalleled visual experience. The display innovations TCL is bringing to CES 2025 are sure to excite both professionals and home entertainment enthusiasts alike. They cover almost every form factor, from professional monitors to in-car displays, mobile phones, tablets, smart watches, smart projectors, and RayNeo AR glasses. TCL will also display its award-winning NXTPAPER technology and officially unveil its revolutionary NXTPAPER 4.0 at CES 2025.

Underscoring its innovations in the AI field, TCL is bringing its latest AI advancements in new product categories as well as partnerships with world-renowned technology brands. Additionally, TCL will unveil the integration of its smart home ecosystem with intelligent solutions designed to enhance energy efficiency and enrich the user experience, which includes air conditioners, built-in refrigerators, washing machines, smart locks, and mobile routers.

Leading up to Super Bowl LIX, TCL’s partnerships with renowned global partners, including its role as the Official TV Partner of the National Football League (NFL) in the United States, will also be a major highlight of the exhibition. Through these partnerships, TCL is developing cutting-edge technologies to enhance viewer experiences and engage fans across a range of interactive on-site activities and online campaigns that aim to build global connections and inspire greatness in everyday life.

For more details, please see below:

TCL CES 2025 Press Conference:


Date & Time: 11:00 – 11:45 AM (PST), January 6, 2025


Location: Mandalay Bay, South Convention Center, Ballroom E (Level 2)




TCL CES 2025 Booth:


Date: January 7-10, 2025


Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #17704

LAS VEGAS Acer announced refreshes to the well-rounded Swift Go series and the eco-friendly Aspire Vero 16 laptops, combining enhanced computing performance, power efficiency, stunning displays, and sustainable designs in the evolving AI PC era.

The Swift Go 14 and Swift Go 16 laptops offer seamless productivity and adaptability in any work environment, with streamlined AI task execution and multi-day battery life, wrapped in ultra-thin and light designs. Available with 3K OLED or 2K IPS touch display configurations, these laptops deliver striking visuals to complement their eye-catching exteriors.

The Aspire Vero 16, a carbon-neutral laptop and the world’s first to incorporate bio-based oyster shell material[iii], now features a chassis made from a combination of more than 70% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and bio-based material[2]. The bold innovation from Acer offers a sustainable laptop option without compromising performance or durability. All the new laptop devices are equipped with Intel® Core™ Ultra 200H series processors and built-in Intel® Arc™ graphics built-in, engineered to scale accelerated AI performance and maximize efficiency for work and creation.

Mobile workers will also appreciate the new Acer Connect 5G mobile Wi-Fi and Acer Wave D7 Wi-Fi dongle, providing high-speed internet connections anywhere, anytime.

“Acer is committed to pushing technological boundaries while maintaining our dedication to sustainability,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, Acer Inc. “The refreshed Swift Go and Aspire Vero laptops, featuring the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, embody our vision of delivering high-performance, eco-friendly products that meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

“With the new Intel Core Ultra processors, we are raising the bar for thin-and-light AI PCs with new levels of CPU compute, a significant leap in graphics with Intel Arc, and incredible enhanced AI performance across the platform,” said David Feng, Vice President and General Manager, Client Segments, Client Computing Group at Intel. “The new Swift Go and Vero laptops are beautiful examples of what’s possible from the decades long collaboration between Intel and Acer.”

Acer Swift Go 16 and Swift Go 14: Power and Portability Redefined

The new Swift Go 16 (SFG16-73/T) and Swift Go 14 (SFG14-74/T) cater to modern users who demand performance, portability, and appealing visuals on their laptops. Powered by the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 200H series processors and Intel Arc graphics, these Swift Go laptops deliver up to 99 total on-device AI TOPS for efficient handling of demanding projects and up to 27.5 hours of video playback[iv]. With up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and up to 2 TB[v] of M.2 SSD storage, they ensure smooth multitasking and ample file storage.

A series of AI-powered tools available makes working and creating effortless. The everyday AI companion with Microsoft Copilot brings inspiration, creativity, and instant answers to help users focus and accomplish tasks quickly. Acer LiveArt™ 2.0 enhances casual creative projects, while Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0 and Aer PurifiedView™ 2.0 refine online communication. These AI features are accessible through the versatile AcerSense™ app.

The 16- and 14-inch devices deliver stunning displays with 3K OLED display or 2K IPS touchscreen options, with VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 500 and Eyesafe® 2.0 certification on the OLED panel for vibrant colors and helping reduce the potential of eye strain during prolonged usage. Their slim, portable designs with refined laser-etched covers complement their refined visual appearance and allow the laptops to open to a full 180 degrees, adapting to various working styles. The multi-control touchpads enable precise media and video call control, offering flexibility and ease of use.

The Swift Go laptops also include the latest features and ports for productivity. Wi-Fi 7 technology and Bluetooth 5.4 provide faster and more reliable connectivity, while their 1440p QHD IR cameras with DTS:X® Ultra technology make conferencing experiences more realistic. Security features such as facial recognition, a fingerprint reader, privacy shutters, and the AI-assisted Acer User Sensing™ 2.0 that detects the users’ presence protect the devices against unwanted access. Users would also appreciate the flexibility of dual Thunderbolt™ 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and a MicroSD card slot, along with the use of PCR materials and recycled packaging on the EPEAT Gold-registered devices[vi].

Aspire Vero 16: Sustainability Meets Performance

Acer’s sustainability efforts are exemplified with the latest Aspire Vero 16 (AV16-71P). This laptop has remained committed to carbon neutrality throughout its lifecycle[1]. It has also increased the usage of PCR and bio-based materials by more than 70%[2] on the chassis compared to its previous model. Other design details reflect the Vero line’s eco-conscious identity, including its ocean-bound plastic touchpad, reduced PET thickness, and easy-to-repair design, ensuring a reduced environmental footprint. The durable MIL-STD-810H-certified chassis can withstand daily use while maintaining a sleek, modern look and feel.

The Aspire Vero 16 is powered by Intel Core Ultra 200H series processors supported by up to 32 GB of memory and up to 2 TB of storage, offering robust performance for all computing needs. The “green but mean” machine has revolutionized sustainability and performance in today’s mobile AI PCs, earning recognition as a CES 2025 Innovation Award Honoree.



For work or entertainment, the Aspire Vero’s 16-inch display brings clear, sharp images with 100% sRGB color gamut support and a wide aspect ratio thanks to slim bezels. Collaboration and security are enhanced with a high-resolution 1440P QHD webcam, privacy features, vital connectivity options in Wi-Fi 7, HDMI 2.1, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Acer Connect M6E 5G Mobile Wi-Fi and Acer Wave D7 Wi-Fi 7 Dongle

Acer’s latest mobile Wi-Fi devices ensure users stay connected with ultra-fast internet anywhere, anytime. The Acer Connect M6E 5G mobile Wi-Fi device, with SIM card, virtual SIM, and SignalScan technology support, provides high-speed 5G network access in over 135 countries, eliminating the hassle of weak signals and dropped connections. The 8,000 mAh high-capacity battery supports fast-charging through a USB Type-C port, while users can enjoy up to 28 hours of uninterrupted high-speed internet connectivity. Additionally, users can connect up to 20 devices simultaneously.

Reliable hot spot sharing with reduced network congestion is assured with 2×2 MIMO technology and Wi-Fi 6E 6 GHz band, whether it is working or gaming on the go. NFC touch-to-connect technology also enables instant connection to Wi-Fi with Android devices.



Built for travel, the mobile Wi-Fi device’s durable yet lightweight structure fits easily into pockets. Tested IP68-rated durability and dust protection technology can resist water immersion of up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. Enterprise-level data security is also ensured with advanced WPA 3 encryption, firewalls, SIM lock, and VPN support.

The Acer Wave D7 Wi-Fi 7 dongle delivers congestion-free Wi-Fi 7 speeds of up to 2,880 Mbps (6 GHz) with tri-band technology. With USB Type-A and a base with USB Type-C connector, flexible installation plus faster transfer speeds are possible through direct plug-and-play. Despite its size, the powerful dongle can support Wi-Fi 7 BE6500 combined throughput across all bands (2.4, 5, and 6 GHz). MLO+ empowers applications to select the best wireless access points, maximizing the efficiency of wireless performance.

Pricing and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Acer Press Room to see all announcements.

Laptop Specifications

Name	Acer Swift Go 16
Model	SFG16-73/T
Operating System	Windows 11 Home
Processors	Up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 285H, 99 total TOPS
Graphics	Intel® Arc™ Graphics
Display	16-inch OLED (2880 x1800) display, Eyesafe 2.0 certified, HDR TrueBlack 500 certified 16-inch OLED (2048 x1280) display, Eyesafe 2.0 certified, HDR TrueBlack 500 certified 16-inch OLED (2880 x1800) IPS display 16-inch OLED (1920×1200) IPS touch display
Memory	Up to 32 GB dual-channel LPDDR5X SDRAM
Storage	Up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Camera	1440p QHD IR HDR camera with Triple-mic support and Privacy Shutter
Audio	DTS® X Ultra
Ports	Two Thunderbolt™ Type-C,Two USB Type-A, HDMI 2.1, MicroSD card reader
Battery	75W Wh 3-cell Li-ion battery, fast charging, provides battery life of up to 22.3 hours on video playback
Wireless and Networking	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Security	Facial recognition, fingerprint reader, privacy shutter
Dimensions and weight	356 (W) x 249 (D) x 10.3-16.6 (H) mm [ (14) x (9.8) x (0.4-0.7) inches], 1.5 kg (3.3lbs.)
Features	Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0, Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0, Acer User Sensing™ 2.0, Acer LiveArt™ 2.0, AcerSense™, 180-degree hinge

Name	Acer Swift Go 14
Model	SFG14-74/T
Operating System	Windows 11 Home
Processors	Up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 285H, 99 total TOPS
Graphics	Intel® Arc™ Graphics
Display	14-inch OLED (2880×1800) display, Eyesafe 2.0 certified, HDR TrueBlack 500 certified 14-inch OLED (1920×1200) display, Eyesafe 2.0 certified, HDR TrueBlack 500 certified 14-inch (1920×1200) IPS touch display
Memory	Up to 32 GB dual-channel LPDDR5X SDRAM
Storage	Up to 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Camera	1440p QHD IR HDR camera with Triple-mic support and Privacy Shutter
Audio	DTS® X Ultra
Ports	Two Thunderbolt™ Type-C, two USB Type-A, HDMI 2.1, MicroSD card reader
Battery	75Wh 3-cell Li-ion battery, fast charging, provides battery life up to 27.5 hours on video playback
Wireless and Networking	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Security	Facial recognition, fingerprint reader, privacy shutter
Dimensions and weight	312.9 (W) x 222.8 (D) x 9.6-16.4 (H) mm [12.3 (W) x 8.7 (D) x 0.4-0.7 (H) inches], 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs.)
Features	Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0, Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0, Acer User Sensing™ 2.0, Acer LiveArt™ 2.0, AcerSense™, 180-degree hinge

Name	Acer Aspire Vero 16
Model	AV16-71P
Operating System	Windows 11 Home
Processors	Up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 255H, 99 total TOPS
Graphics	Intel® Arc™ Graphics
Display	16-inch WUXGA (1920×1200)
Memory	Up to 32 GB dual-channel LPDDR5X SDRAM
Storage	Up to 2 TB M.2 SSD
Camera	1440p QHD camera with Privacy Shutter
Audio	DTS® Audio
Ports	Two Thunderbolt™ Type-C, HDMI 2.1
Battery	65W 3-cell Li-ion battery
Wireless and Networking	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Security	Fingerprint reader, privacy shutter
Dimensions and weight	359.4 (W) 247 (D) 12.4-19.6 (H) mm [14.1 (W) 9.7 (D) 0.5-0.8 (H) inches], 1.8 kg (3.97 lbs.)
Features	Acer PurifiedVoice™, Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0, AcerSense™

Router Specifications

Name	Acer Connect M6E 5G Mobile Wi-Fi
Model	M6E
Wi-Fi Technology	Wi-Fi 6E 6G Band
Processor	Octa Core processors, up to 2.5 GHz
Memory	RAM: 4 GB ROM: 16 GB
Cellular Band Support	Worldwide compatible
SIM	Nano SIM + Virtual SIM
Connectivity	5G and Wi-Fi 6E
Dimensions	140 mm x 86 mm x 19.05 mm
Weight	Less than 300 g
Additional Interface	NFC
Security	VPN

Name	Acer Wave D7 Wi-Fi 7 Dongle
Model	D7
Wi-Fi Technology	Wi-Fi 7 6G Band
Band Support	2880 Mbps (6GHz) + 2880 Mbps (5GHz) + 688 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
SIM	N/A
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 7
Dimensions	100 mm x 26 mm x 15 mm
Weight	40 g
Additional Interface	USB Type-C Cradle
Software Feature	MLO+

The new year brings new ways to treat yourself as SM City Valenzuela welcomes two exciting new stores that promise to elevate your self-care and style game. Get ready to glow and accessorize with Luxewax Waxing Salon and Bagel Girl, now open to cater to your beauty and fashion needs.

Unveil Your Glow with Luxewax





Step into the new year bare-ready and radiant! Luxewax, the country’s premier waxing salon, is now open on the 3rd floor of SM City Valenzuela. Designed to offer spa-like luxury with private suites and personalized care, Luxewax redefines the waxing experience for both men and women. From classic waxing to sugar wax treatments, Luxewax provides an extensive menu of services performed by highly trained technicians. Their sleek, modern interiors create a relaxing ambiance, perfect for indulging in much-needed TLC. To keep your glow going, explore their dermatology-tested body and skincare products for post-wax care. Make 2025 your most confident year yet with smooth, radiant skin that’s sure to turn heads!




Get Cute and Stylish with Bagel Girl








Charming, quirky, and utterly irresistible—Bagel Girl is the perfect spot to discover the cutest accessories that brighten your day. Located on the second level of SM City Valenzuela, this shop is a dream come true for girly girls and accessory enthusiasts. From stylish necklaces and dainty rings to playful bunny ear headbands, flower crowns, and wigs, Bagel Girl offers a wide array of items that add a dash of fun to any look. Inspired by the Korean term “Bagel Girl,” which describes someone with a youthful face and a glamorous persona, the store perfectly embodies this blend of charm and sophistication. Whether you’re looking to glam up your outfit or simply picking out a whimsical gift for someone special, Bagel Girl has you covered. Drop by, add a dash of sweetness to your day and bring home something cute to express your unique style.





With the addition of Luxewax and Bagel Girl, SM City Valenzuela continues to bring exciting options for beauty and style to its shoppers. Discover these new stores and make your visit a delightful start to a fabulous new year.




For more updates, follow SM City Valenzuela on social media https://www.facebook.com/smcityvalenzuela. Let’s make 2025 your year of glow and glam!

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers, received top accolades at the Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE).

At the Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards, SM Prime secured recognitions in the Large Building Category with SM Center Pulilan and in the New and Existing Building Category with SM City Tanza and SM City Tuguegarao. The three malls won under the Energy Management in Industries and Buildings division, where nominees submitted their Annual Energy Utilization and Annual Energy Efficiency and Conservation Reports.

Dubbed the EEE Awards, the DOE includes a review of the companies’ implementation of the Policy on Energy Management Systems and their energy savings. The awards demonstrated SM Prime’s commitment to proper energy management through the widespread use of energy-efficient fixtures and equipment such as Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lighting, building management systems, and building insulation to reduce electricity consumption.

DOE Undersecretary Sharon Garin led the awarding for both events, as the Sustainable Energy Awards coincided with the ceremonial launch of the department’s Renewable Energy Market (REM) full commercial operations.





SM Center Pulilan receives award in the Large Building Category at the recently held Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards.


Department of Energy (DOE) – Energy Utilization Management Board Director Patrick Aquino (seventh from left) with SM Engineering Design & Development (EDD) Vice President for Operations Engr. Teodoro Bautista, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Prime Holdings Vice President for Internal Audit Marvin Perrin Pe, along with representatives from SM Center Pulilan, SM City Tanza, and SM City Tuguegarao.







Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Sharon Garin congratulates SM Engineering Design & Development (EDD) Vice President for Operations Engr. Teodoro Bautista for SM Mall of Asia (MOA)’s win of the first DOE Sustainable Energy Award for private institutions.

SM Mall of Asia (MOA), SM Prime’s flagship shopping mall in Philippines, bested other establishments to receive DOE’s first-ever Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution. SM MOA’s winning renewable energy feature is its solar photovoltaic system installed on top of the complex’s carpark buildings, consisting of 10,426 solar panels and 40 inverters.

Capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy, the system produces enough electricity to power 1,790 households for an entire year. To date, 35 SM Supermalls have solar installations on their roof decks, totaling 44 MW of peak energy.

SM Engineering and Design Development President Engr. Hans Sy, Jr. expressed his appreciation for the DOE recognitions:

“These awards affirm SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable operations that benefit both the environment and our communities. We are proud to contribute to a greener future through our active energy conservation.”

The majority of SM Supermalls participate in the DOE’s Interruptible Load Program (ILP), where the malls contribute 110MW of power at every ILP activity. SM Prime has the largest contribution among the private sector, with SM MOA providing the highest committed capacity at 15.92 MW.

A pillar of SM Prime’s goal to achieve Net Zero by 2040, renewable energy, coupled with proper waste management, aligns with the national targets that will lead the Philippines to a better and brighter future.

The 6-track release serves as his first record under Sony Music Entertainment

James Reid has officially released his highly anticipated new EP, jgh, under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.

The 6-track record gives an intimate glimpse into his past and present life, chronicling how he has matured all these years, both as an artist and as a person.

Short for “just got home,” jgh also marks a significant moment in Reid’s musical evolution, symbolizing his return to a place of peace and serenity, lyrically and sonically speaking. With a blend of pop, R&B, and OPM sensibilities, the EP captures Reid at his most vulnerable, rediscovering the earnest, grounded parts of his identity that he may have lost touch with and learning to forgive himself and accept the flaws that came with it.

“My home is a reflection of myself,” says James Reid. “It’s filled with things I’ve gathered along my journey and decorated with memories. It’s been another crazy year, and now that I’m home, I have a lot of stories to tell.”

Written and produced by Reid alongside collaborators Tim Marquez, Niko, Luke April, Alison Shore, and Brian Lotho, the EP is marked by its introspective nature and sparse production. Many of the tracks began as simple acoustic guitar or piano compositions, with each producer adding their own unique touch to further shape the mood of the record.

“All the songs were written from the heart,” James shares. “Some of them were painful to write, others were inspired by realizations I had along the way, and some were inspired by love. It was an emotional journey, and I see each of these songs like a page from my diary or a chapter in my life—truths I may have found difficult to express before.”

The EP’s production style is subtle yet impactful, reflecting a sense of comforting warmth that resonates deeply with a universal audience. The songs are intentionally understated, trading polished arrangements or high-energy hooks in favor of nuanced details that highlight Reid’s rich vocal delivery and powerful storytelling.

As an entirety, jgh has the potential to dominate the charts and win over even the most hardened listener’s icy heart.

Tracklist for jgh:

1. Mirasol

2. Di Bale

3. Sandal

4. Hurt Me Too

5. Your Boy

6. Pauwi Na

James Reid’s new album, ‘jgh’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.

The New Year is upon us, and what better way to welcome 2025 than with a bountiful Media Noche spread that symbolizes luck, harmony, and prosperity? At SM Supermalls in the East Metro, you’ll find everything you need to create a festive feast for your family. Here are the top five must-have dishes and delights that you can bring home to ensure a joyous start to the new year!

1. Meats for prosperity






Liempo and barbecue meats-to-grill

Where to buy: SM Supermarket in SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown


Round out your Media Noche with smoky, savory meats-to-grill from SM Supermarket. Barbecue and liempo are family favorites that promise to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of celebration. These symbolize abundance and the promise of fulfilling your goals in the year ahead. Pair these perfectly marinated meats with your favorite sauces and sides for a winning feast!

Whiskey and Red Wine

Where to buy: SM Supermarket in SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown


Toast to the new year with a bottle (or two) of premium wines and spirits from SM Supermarket. A sparkling white or a bold red will add a touch of sophistication to your Media Noche table. Sharing a glass with your loved ones not only brings joy but also symbolizes the sweet moments that await in 2025.

3. Round Fruits for Luck

Fruit Basket

Where to buy: SM Supermarket in SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown


No Media Noche is complete without a selection of round fruits, a time-honored tradition that symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. At SM Supermarket, you’ll find an array of fresh, vibrant fruits like oranges, grapes, and apples. Arrange them in a beautiful centerpiece to attract good vibes for the year ahead.

Crispy Pata

Where to buy: Kuya J, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo






Combo A with Chicken, Shanghai Rolls, and Pancit Canton

Where to buy: Classic Savory, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo


Kuya J serves up classic Filipino dishes perfect for the season. Indulge in their crispy pata and hearty bulalo, both rich in flavor and comforting warmth. These dishes symbolize strength and unity, making them ideal for a family gathering.

For a touch of nostalgia and tradition, grab a bountiful platter of chicken, pancit, and shanghai rolls from Classic Savory. These dishes symbolize longevity and togetherness—perfect for sharing with the family as you welcome the new year.



5. Sweet Treats for Harmony

Bundt Cake

Where to buy: Dulcinea in SM City Marikina

Premium cakes

Where to buy: The Taste of Czaczacza in SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo


End your Media Noche on a sweet note with cakes and donuts from The Taste of Czaczacza and Dulcinea. Whether it’s a creamy, decadent cake or colorful, festive donuts, these treats signify harmony and sweetness in relationships. Their vibrant designs will also add a pop of color to your spread!
Bring Home the Festive Feast

Wherever you are in the East Metro—be it SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, or SM Center Antipolo Downtown—these must-haves are within your reach. Make your Media Noche preparations a breeze and elevate your celebration by exploring the delightful food offerings at SM Supermalls.

Celebrate the new year with good food and great company! Visit SM Supermalls today and make this New Year’s Eve a celebration to remember.





Follow SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown on social media for the latest updates, exciting promotions, and more. Welcome 2025 with joy, delicious food, and cherished moments with your loved ones. Cheers to a prosperous New Year!

SM City Valenzuela volunteer proudly hands an SM Bear of Joy to a child with disability. The mall contributed 700 bears, matched by SM City Grand Central, totaling 1,400 plush toys for children with special needs and PWDs.

In a season marked by joy and giving, SM Malls in Grand Central and Valenzuela closed 2024 on a heartwarming note with their annual Bears of Joy donation, bringing smiles to children with special needs and persons with disabilities. The campaign, which underscores SM’s commitment to community upliftment, saw the donation of 1,400 plush toys to various beneficiaries across Caloocan and Valenzuela.

SM City Valenzuela spearheaded the effort, contributing 700 bears, while SM City Grand Central added 700 to the tally. The plushies—adorable oval-shaped companions inspired by the viral Squishmallow trend—were distributed to beneficiaries such as Valenzuela’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office and the Alliance of PWD in Caloocan City Inc.

An SM volunteer lights up the day of a child with a disability by gifting an SM Bear of Joy. SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central ended the year on a heartwarming note, donating 1,400 plush toys to children with special needs and persons with disabilities.

SM City Grand Central Mall Manager Von Aaron Tan personally hands an SM Bear of Joy to a person with special needs. The annual Bears of Joy initiative brought smiles to 1,400 recipients, as SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela shared the gift of giving to the PWD community.

For the children who received them, the Bears of Joy were more than just toys—they became symbols of hope and love. Each plushie represents the spirit of the holiday season and the Filipino tradition of bayanihan, fostering a sense of belonging and care for the less privileged.

The initiative was spearheaded by SM Cares, Toy Kingdom, and SM Supermalls, reinforcing the collective power of compassion. The program also reflects the profound impact of collective goodwill, proving that small gestures of kindness can leave lasting imprints on the lives of those who need it most.